LET’S DISCUSS ECONOMIC VITALITY

Posted on Sep 14, 2017

Last month, the City of Thomasville launched a new series of public meetings with guest speakers to help spark conversation concerning topics that are relevant to municipal operations, economic development, planning and design, and more.

Tonight, the "Let’s Discuss…" series will welcome Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. Clark will give a statewide and community overview, while sharing the direction that our state is headed by the year 2030. From county-specific statistics to statewide job growth and even high school and college education, Clark will cover it all by sharing exclusive data addressing the future of our great state. The presentation will begin at 6pm at the Harper Elementary School Gymnasium.

The City kicked off the "Let's Discuss..." series by partnering with the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce to host Kevin Klinkenberg, Executive Director of the Savannah Development and Renewal Authority. Through years of experience as an architect, planner, street designer, facilitator, and investment coordinator, Kevin’s presentation focused on the belief that smaller cities must empower themselves with a strong vision aimed at economic development. In his presentation entitled ‘A different Paradigm for Economic Development’, Klinkenberg highlighted four main priorities: understanding your city’s land value and potential to generate revenue, understanding your real estate customers and providing options to accommodate every type of buyer, how small victories can have a big impact on the health of an entire city, and the value of place-making.

The "Let’s Discuss…" speakers series continues next week when Victor Dover presents ‘Great Streets.’ Dover will present the insight he has gained from studying hundreds of streets old and new, show us what works and what doesn't, and reveal the secrets behind designing beautiful streets and walkable places. Dover’s visit is part of the comprehensive planning process, which will feature a week of community workshops, called a public design charrette, September 18-22. More information is available at www.blueprintthomasville.com.